Reading to seal ‘massive’ double deal

Reading are showing real intent at gaining instant promotion back to the Premier League with their local reporter Jonathan Low announcing that Royston Drenthe’s move to the club is close to completion.

He mentioned he had spoken to Drenthe’s agent Fabian Weldwijk this morning who stated the move was ‘99%’ certain to happen.

Following this, Weldwijk told NUSport in Holland:

“The contract has been signed.”

“A few small things have to be arranged before its official.”

“He has a good feeling with the club and wants to play in England.”

Drenthe has recently been playing in Russia with Alania Vladikavkaz and scored a hat-trick in one game before they were eventually relegated allowing his ‘clause’ to activate enabling him to move on a free transfer to any interested club.

The 26-year old, who once cost Real Madrid over £12 million, will move to the Championship side on a three-year contract after completing a medical on Tuesday.

Further to this, Owner Anton Zingarevich is backing his appointment Nigel Adkins by giving him a large transfer kitty to gain instant promotion back to the Premier League.

After announcing the signing of former Chelsea left back Wayne Bridge last week, and the imminent arrival of Royston Drenthe, it has been reported today that Celtic striker Gary Hooper was at the Madejski Stadium earlier this week to discuss a move which will cost the Royals at least £5 million with the prolific forward only having a year left on his deal at Parkhead.

Hooper has worked with Adkins during his time at Scunthorpe United, and is keen on a return South of the border, and was even on trial with Reading during his days with Grays Athletic 8 years ago.

Another player who may be heading to the Madejski Stadium, is creative midfielder Yossi Benayoun who was released by Chelsea during the summer, although reports of his arrival have gone quiet over recent days.

It will be an interesting summer for Royals fans with the owner finally backing the manager, and the side they are beginning to create looks a force to reckoned with in the Championship next season.